Two weeks in Twitter alerts

Recently we launched Twitter Alerts, a new emergency alert feature that provides critical information to citizens during a fast-moving crisis situation or when other communication services aren’t accessible. In the past two weeks, we’ve seen several cases that demonstrate how the Twitter Alerts feature can be used during a wide variety of emergencies involving public safety, accessibility and bad weather.

Incident on Capitol Hill

As news of a runaway car and shooting broke and the “shelter in place” order was issued, the Senate Sergeant at Arms, responsible for security and safety at the U.S. Senate, sent out a Twitter alert.

USCP investigating reports of gunshots on Capitol Hill. If in a #Senate office, shelter in place. If not go to nearest office. #alert

New York Amber alertNew York’s Office of Emergency Management (@NotifyNYC) used the feature when issuing an Amber alert, which are are typically sent out on public channels. Twitter Alerts offer another avenue to reach citizens.

Federal government shutdownThe U.S. Department of Interior (@Interior) needed to provide timely information of a different sort. As the federal government shutdown went into effect, @Interior used the feature to announce that all of its affiliated agencies and lands including national parks would be closed.

Storms in New JerseyAnd as seasonal tornadoes moved up the east coast, the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (@ReadyNJ) alerted subscribers that a statewide tornado watch was in effect and to be prepared.

By adding the Twitter Alerts badge, the agencies and organizations can reach users who subscribe to the service to receive Tweets delivered by push and/or SMS. The Twitter Alerts designation stands out on a user’s timeline, indicated by an orange bell icon.

Here’s how an alert appears via SMS message and push notification:

Who can participateThe Twitter Alerts program is available to local, national and international institutions that provide critical information to the general public. These entities have priority access:

law enforcement and public safety agencies

emergency management agencies

city and municipal governments, as well as their agencies and representatives

county and regional agencies that provide services to cities and municipalities

select state, federal, and national agencies and NGOs

Currently, more than 100 NGOs and government agencies in the U.S., Japan and Korea can send alerts. we are expanding the service to include more organizations around the world. If you believe your organization qualifies for the Twitter Alerts program, please complete our enrollment form.